IMAGE Business Woman of the Year 2015 Judges Lunch

Why Khaki Is My Failsafe Shade For Spring/Summer

Summer style can very easily become a little too frothy for me. Sugary pastels, ditsy prints and romantic florals need a strong and slightly masculine counterpoint if they’re to work in my wardrobe, and utilitarian khaki offers just that. It anchors dreamy dresses and punctuates pretty prints, lending each a much-needed urban edge. Here are my favourite khaki pieces for spring/summer.

This Maje T-shirt is a great basic for summer. Be inventive about how you style it. Wear it beneath a sundress with a pair of trainers for a cool, laid-back look.

T-shirt with Lurex detail, €95 at Maje

A shirt dress is one of the key pieces for this season. I love dresses that have a utilitarian vibe, and this H&M piece looks relaxed and sophisticated at the same time, and at €29.99 it’s a terrific price.

Sleeveless shirt dress, €29.99 at H&M

I swear by culottes, in summer and winter. They’re comfortable, chic, and you get to show off your shoes. These Warehouse culottes would work equally well for work as for the weekend. Given the boyish cut and utilitarian shade, I would probably style them up with something a little more detailed, feminine even, than a simple white T-shirt.

Cotton culottes, €55 at Warehouse

Texture is just as important to an outfit in spring and summer as it is in winter. I love this gorgeous tactile knit from Cos. The elbow-length sleeves are perfect for layering, or simply throw it over a full skirt to create a nice dichotomy.

Short-sleeved cable-knit jumper, €40 (reduced from €79) at Cos

Zara is so good at creating interesting contrasts for you. A lace sweatshirt with athleisure-style stripes? Brilliant.